Atlanta airport maintains busiest in world status; global travel trends continue upward

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Atlanta airport maintains busiest in world status; global travel trends continue upward

Research

Christine Gallipeau Senior editor | The Points Guy

By Sky Industry News

Apr 14, 2025

In 2024, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) has once again secured its position as the world's busiest airport, a title it has held for 26 out of the past 27 years. The Atlanta airport, which serves as the main hub for Delta Air Lines, topped the Airports Council International's annual rankings by handling over 108 million passengers, marking an increase of slightly over 3% from 2023.

This achievement coincides with a record number of airline passengers globally, as 2024 witnessed close to 5 billion travelers, according to ACI. This figure exhibits a 9% rise from the previous year and nearly 4% over the levels seen prior to the pandemic in 2019. In the U.S., the Transportation Security Administration recorded its 10 busiest days at airport security checkpoints in 2024, with December 1 marking the highest volume ever, exceeding 3 million passengers on that single day.

Following ATL, Dubai International Airport (DXB) ranked second with over 92 million passengers. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) came third, with Denver International Airport (DEN) and O'Hare International Airport (ORD) placing sixth and eighth, respectively, among the world's top 10 busiest airports.

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The busiest airports list saw Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) making a substantial leap from the 21st spot in 2023 to the 10th in 2024, driven by a resurgence in regional air travel. PVG was the eighth-busiest airport globally back in 2019.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), however, dropped out of the top 10 after ranking eighth in 2023 and third four years ago. Notably, ORD, a hub for United Airlines and American Airlines, surpassed LAX in 2024.

According to aviation analytics firm Cirium, ORD is poised for further growth, with seat availability projected to increase by nearly 11% this summer compared to last.

In a separate list ranking airports by international passenger volume, DXB claimed the top position, followed by Heathrow (LHR). Notably, no U.S. airport appeared in the top 10 for international travel.

Furthermore, ATL is marking a century of operations, celebrating its 100th birthday alongside its major tenant, Delta. Visitors can explore attractions like the American Express Centurion Lounge and the newly opened Delta Sky Club. The Delta Flight Museum, a short distance from the terminals, is a recommended visit for those spending a layover at ATL.

ACI's report anticipates a nearly 5% increase in worldwide passenger boarding in 2025, hinting at another potential record year. Nonetheless, uncertainties surrounding travel demand may affect these projections in the future.